The Kitchener Sports Association (KSA) Awards of Excellence, which are awarded in recognition to those who have demonstrated “outstanding leadership, excellence and influence to the sporting community,” are presented annually at the Athlete of the Year event. The goal is to recognize the best recipient, not a right or wrong recipient, so that the recipient represents the best of sports in the local community. There are now three categories in the Awards of Excellence Program:

Individual: Individuals nominated must be volunteers -- level and extent of volunteerism is of prime importance -- those who receive remuneration are not eligible. Candidates should be recognized as good community citizens and positive role models for sports in the community.

Team: Level of achievement is only one of the criteria considered -- success in the community, league, district, provincial, national or international level is certainly a factor as are the difficulties/odds faced. Other considerations include the team's competitive spirit, sportsmanship and enthusiastic support of teammates and competitors within the sport. The extent of the team's involvement in the community ("give-back") is also a major consideration.

Organization: Factors of importance for an organization to be recognized are similar to those mentioned in the Team category but for the sports group as a whole entity. Again, involvement in the community is of prime importance.